January 16, 2026
A group of high school friends that turned their annual golf trip into a biannual, have fun tournament, have partnered with Pearl River Community College to create a scholarship.
The Good Vibes Only (GVO) Movement and charity was started by a group of former Petal High students who use the golf tournaments to raise money for good causes.
The Jared Curry Scholarship Fund was created in 2025 to financially support PRCC EMT students who align with the core values and mission of GVO.
That mission is: We are committed to supporting individuals, especially veterans and first responders, who are facing mental health challenges. Through our events, we aim to provide essential resources to foster healing, promote resilience, and bring hope to those in need.
Jared William Curry, known as “Doc” Curry to his fellow Marines and Sailors, was an Afghanistan war veteran with two tours, serving from 2009 to 2017. His bravery as a medic earned him the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a combat distinguishing “V” for his heroic actions.
Curry, who passed away in 2019, was also an accomplished athlete, scholar, and musician at Petal High. He was a loving and dedicated father to his adoptive daughter, Olivia.
The GVO website reads: “This scholarship ensures that Jared’s life continues to inspire and support others, turning his story into a force for good in the lives of veterans and family who may be struggling.”
Curry’s four friends from Petal High who make up the GVO board, are Chas Pierce, Derek Underwood, Matt White and Matt Lawrence. Three of the four have strong PRCC connections.
Pierce and Underwood played baseball at PRCC from 2001-03. White played soccer from 2001-03.
The four PRCC EMT students benefitting from the scholarship this spring semester are Taylor Expose, Hailey Millis, Monecia Varnado and Holly White. EMT is a Workforce Education program at PRCC. The instructor is Beverly Courtney.
“’By awarding each of these students with a scholarship for the EMT course, GVO has lessened the financial strain students often experience,” said Courtney.
“This will open the door for each of these students to hopefully pay it forward in the future.”
The Good Vibes Only Charity Fund is a 501c3 nonprofit.
How to donate: GVO Golf has launched its fundraising page through GiveButter. 100% of money raised goes towards funding The Jared Curry Memorial Scholarship for EMT students at PRCC. Visit our site directly at https://givebutter.com/GVO-Golf or text GVO to 53-555.
For the latest news on Pearl River Community College, visit PRCC.edu and follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter (@PRCC_Wildcats), Instagram (PRCCWILDCATS), Facebook (@PRCCMKTG),and TikTok (@prcc_wildcats).
Article and photography by Chuck Abadie.
